Boston

Being on the East Coast, we are now much closer to much of the Stubbs side of the family. Tyler's dad's parents live just outside of Boston, and he has aunts, uncles, cousins, great aunts and uncles, and second cousins pretty close by. When Tyler had the opportunity to take a class for work in Boston, we jumped on it, and Jackson and I tagged along and made a long weekend of it.

I haven't travelled much any of the East Coast, which seems crazy. I guess I've been a West Coaster most of my life, so I'm thoroughly excited to take advantage of being within driving distance of so many major cities and rich history here in the North East.

It was fascinating to learn about where Tyler's grandparents are from, and meet some family that Tyler hasn't seen since he was too tiny to remember.

We had a pretty relaxing trip with time by the pool, a trip into the city, and a tour of the gorgeous towns that Tyler's grandparents grew up and met in. We saw their childhood homes, places where they went on dates, and the church they got married in.

Sandy and Sonny were also a military family, moving to a number of homes worldwide while raising five children. There's something to be said for landing where it all began. For going back to the places and the people you love. Someday I hope to tell the same stories and point out the same important places that make up our story to our grandchildren.

We will certainly be back to Boston - there's so much more to discover.

 

Playing with one of grandpa Chuck's childhood toys.

 

He was obsessed with the pool.

 

The "Cheers" bar. You know, where everybody knows your name.

 

Checking out the swan boats.

 

Public Garden Swan Ride

July 4th

Coincidentally, we also love America, and we really love celebrating Lady Liberty's birthday.

-Illegal fireworks show put on by several of my parents' neighbors? Check.

-Legal fireworks show in my parent's neighborhood? Check.

-Sparklers, glow sticks, drinks, friends, and family? Check.

That's my kind of night.

Colorado Roundup

As usual, our trip to Colorado was packed with awesome. There were lots of cuddles, giggles, and fun had by all. Here's a roundup of my favorite pictures, and boy was it tough to narrow it down to these!

We heart Colorado.

 

A lesson in walking with great grandpa Huelf.

 

Cheers!

 

Warming up with great grandma Stowe.

 

#bachieinnashie

During my time in Colorado, I slipped away for one weekend to attend my BFF's bachelorette party, in Nashville. 12 girls from across the country came to celebrate Michelle, and it was truly an amazing time. Some of us knew each other before, some of us met for the first time in Nashville, but by Sunday - I think its safe to say we all felt like we'd known each other for much longer than just two days.

There were sisters, childhood friends, college friends, and post-college friends. We beer-biked, belted out country songs, ate, danced, toured, and walked Nashville like it was our job. I think I left a small piece of my heart in that city.

To Michelle: I'm confident that I speak for everyone when I say that we couldn't be more happy for you and Gabs. There's nothing more refreshing than real love. The kind that radiates.

Just 46 more days until the big day, not that I'm counting or anything.

 

 

When Your Mom Saves Your Butt

I am not ashamed to admit that I really dread travelling alone with Jackson. An otherwise really good little boy turns into an unrecognizable, inconsolable, screaming child on an airplane. I know the problem. He hates being confined. The kid wants freedom, and has slept in his own space since he was teeny tiny. Falling asleep in my arms is not a thing - it's rare and treasured when it happens. Much to my dismay, the kid is NOT a cuddler (this is apparently not a word?), so being stuck on my lap for hours is unfortunate for both of us.

We are THOSE people, people.

So, when I made the decision to fly to CO with the little nugget on my own, I knew I was in for it. I am so lucky my mom a) has summers off b) wanted to see our new home c) loves Jackson d) loves me.

One night, I received a phone call. "I'm flying out there. I'll help you bring Jackson back."

OMG, THANK YOU. Yes, please.

Hashtag I'm spoiled.

And so, while Tyler was on a business trip (TDY) as we militarians like to call it, my mama came out for some quality time and to take on the challenge of bringing Jackson to Colorado with me. Bless her heart.

We had a really wonderful time, and I loved showing her our new home, a farmers market, and a few tasty restaurants.

Thanks mom, for saving my bum. Our trip to Colorado was 100 percent more pleasant than my adventure home (to be covered in another blog).

 

Pre-flight story time.

 

This is where Jackson decided to nap. In his stroller while we ate lunch in Chicago. Thank goodness he napped, but really, my arms are less comfortable than THIS?! I'm offended.